What Are the Symptoms of a Ruptured Ovarian Cyst?

Symptoms of a ruptured ovarian cyst include pain in the pelvic area, fever, fainting, dizziness and rapid breathing, according to Healthline. The woman may also experience nausea, vomiting and pain during intercourse, according to WebMD. A very serious complication of a ruptured ovarian cyst is internal bleeding.

A woman who has severe pain in the pelvic area or abdomen should seek medical attention as soon as possible, claims About.com. This is not just because a ruptured ovary is a problem in itself, but the pain also mimics other conditions such as ectopic pregnancy and appendicitis. However, the symptoms of a ruptured ovarian cyst may be mild, according to Womens Health Advice.

Doctors diagnose ovarian cysts through pelvic exams and medical technologies such as CT scans, MRIs and ultrasound, says Healthline. If the cyst has ruptured, the doctor may simply prescribe medications to control the pain, according to About.com.

Ovarian cysts may rupture if the woman engages in strenuous activities such as sports or exercise, according to Womens Health Advice. Sexual intercourse is a common reason for an ovarian cyst to rupture, as is straining during a bowel movement, pregnancy, and trauma or injury to the area of the cyst. A cyst can also rupture by simply bending down or reaching for something.